FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Perhaps you’re new to yoga or just new to either Dru Yoga, Grief Yoga or Laughter Yoga. Either way you can find out more about the styles of yoga I teach and what to expect from one of my sessions.

What can I expect in a Dru Yoga class?

We start each lesson with a fun activation to wake you up and warm-up your body. We’ll then move onto a flowing EBR (energy block release) sequence to release tension from the joints and muscles, followed by targeted posture work (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama). The class will finish with a long, deep guided relaxation. Together these different elements help create a great feeling of health, harmony and general well-being.

"I loved that the Dru yoga didn't serve to hold postures and further add to physical stress, rather it allowed fluidity and loosening. It was an awesome end to my week. Thank you to the very talented and inspirational Toby." Helen H

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Do I need to have done yoga before?

It doesn't matter if you've never done yoga before or haven't done any real exercise for years because  Dru is for everyone! No matter what age, shape or size you are, you’ll be able to do Dru Yoga. You won’t need to compare yourself with anyone, and in Dru Yoga we never talk about the ‘perfect posture’. Instead we find the right ways to do yoga safely and effectively for you depending on your unique abilities. The emphasis is always on you.

"Thoroughly enjoyed my first yoga class, l could feel myself strengthening, even at 65 yrs , it was in a way easier than l thought, yet warming." Ann B

What should I wear for a Dru Yoga class?

You can wear whatever you feel most comfortable  in. The most important thing is that you can move about freely and easily, for some people that means tight and stretching fabric while others prefer loose and flowing. It's completely up to you. It is also a good idea to wear a few layers so that you can quickly warm up or cool down during the class.

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Do I need to bring anything?

Yes, a yoga mat unless you prefer practicing directly on the floor. I would also suggest having some water because you will probably get thirsty and a blanket to cover up with during the relaxation at the end of the class as the body can quickly cool down after exercise. You may also want a small pillow for your head.

"What an amazing experience! I have tried lots of different styles of yoga but this was my first time with Dru. I absolutely loved it!! Thank you so much for an amazing class." Lola A

What is Dru Yoga?

Dru Yoga is a graceful and potent form of yoga, based on soft flowing movements, directed breathing and visualisation. With its foundations set firmly in ancient yogic tradition - it has its roots in Hatha Yoga – and incorporating the latest scientific insights, Dru works on body, mind and emotions to bring about greater health, harmony and happiness. There are Dru Yoga schools all around the globe, including the England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Norway, Australia, New Zealand, The Netherlands and Canada. You can find out more about Dru Yoga at www.druyoga.com

"Dru is a non-profit, social enterprise inspiring a naturally healthier way of living for everybody. We are an international School of Yoga, Meditation, Ayurveda, Health and Nutrition... Our passion is to create educational programmes that transform lives, give back to society and leave the earth better than we found it." from, druyoga.com

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Is TOBY YOGA inclusive?

Yes, TOBY YOGA is open and inclusive to everyone. My Dru Yoga classes are a safe space so whatever your gender identity, sexuality, race, religion, body type, or level of ability you will be welcome at TOBY YOGA.

"Even after a shorter taster session I was smiling and relaxed! I felt privileged to have Toby as my teacher, it was such a lovely class! Thank you!" Susan T

Is TOBY YOGA a qualified teacher?

Yes, I am a fully qualified and registered yoga teacher. My qualifications include DPN-200 and RYT-500. I have completed two years of Dru Yoga Teacher Training and associated teaching practice and am a registered member of the Dru Professional Network (DPN.) I am also a Certified Grief Yoga® Teacher and Laugher Yoga Teacher. My other qualifications include: Dru Kids & Teens Teacher, specialist Dru Back care & Wellbeing Teacher, Traditional Yoga Meditation Teacher and a Dru Meditation Teacher. I am also a registered Therapist, you can find out more about this work at www.eastviewtherapy.com.

What are the benefits of Dru Yoga?

There are many benefits of Dru Yoga physically, mentally and emotionally - many people find it helps them become more flexible, better able to relax, feel fitter and sleep more soundly. I did! In world-first research studies, Dru Yoga is shown to be beneficial in reducing stress and back pain at work. It helps professional footballers experience fewer injuries. And most importantly, it helps you make a greater success of your life. Research conducted by the University of Bangor, North Wales shows Dru Yoga eases back pain, decreases stress, and reduces both anxiety and fatigue. And a survey of more than 450 people who regularly practised Dru Yoga showed that:

  • 93% experienced improved spine flexibility

  • 91% gained more peace of mind

  • 91% overcame negative thinking

  • 89% experienced improved breathing

  • 89% reported reduced stress levels

  • 86% enjoyed increased energy levels

  • 84% benefitted from enhanced mood

  • 83% felt more emotionally balanced

  • 81% had greater confidence.

Does TOBY YOGA offer 1-2-1 yoga teaching?

Yes, we are happy to offer one-to-one targeted Dru Yoga consultations with Toby. These bespoke sessions are tailored to your specific needs. Working on a one-to-one basis is beneficial for many reasons, for example if you:

  • are new to yoga (or Dru Yoga) and want to build experience and confidence before joining one of our weekly classes

  • have a specific health concern or issue that you want to work on

  • want to deepen your practice by exploring a specific aspect of yoga in more detail

  • feel like treating yourself to a class that focuses solely on you and your needs.

A one-to-one consultation typically lasts for 90 minutes and the cost is £60 per session.

"Really enjoyed last night's class. My shoulders feel so relaxed today” Judith, Sheffield

“Thank you so much for such a lovely session tonight! I feel ready for a good night’s sleep.” Charlie, Sheffield

Got a question? Want to find out more about the benefits of therapeutic yoga, meditation and life-enhancing workshops? Get in touch with Toby at TOBY YOGA or simply fill in the form below :